Step 3: Reasons

Explain them briefly. Usually it’s best to include just enough detail to let the reader follow your reasoning. If you include too much detail, the reader tends to get frustrated and may be more likely to pick your points apart and attempt to argue.

• The priorities for FY20XX were set long before we had the opportunity to read your proposal.
• We have three other projects we must finish before we can turn to your accounts; therefore, it will take us another month to get the figures back to you.